The Bellefontaine Board of Education met in regular session Monday night. Highlighting the meeting was the board’s acceptance of a contract agreement with the Ohio Association of Public School Employees. The union represents the district’s classified staff (bus drivers, cooks, custodians).

Superintendent Beth Harman indicated that the classified staff agreed to a 1% increase on the base salary on the first year of a three-year deal. The district agreed to reopen negotiations on financial issues after the first year. Insurance coverage remained the same. As part of the agreement an evaluation process, similar to one used for certified staff, will be created.

Harman reported that construction of the new middle school, which had fallen behind because of extensive water damage to the first floor, has progressed to a point that the August 1st moving-in date is still realistic. She indicated that staff may not be able to get into certain spots of the first floor but barring unforeseen circumstances, the rest of the building should be ready. The elementary school is ready for inspection.

The approval of House Bill 59 has affected the status of board member Anne Reames. Under the new law, joint vocational school board members must be prominent members of the business community. CEOs, CFOs, or those in human resources meet the criteria. Reames has been the district’s representative on the Ohio Hi-Point school board. She would like to remain in that position when her term is up for re-election but may not have the needed credentials to serve. If she can’t serve, Harman will have to gather a list of interested candidates - a task she does not want to do because of her satisfaction with Reames’ efforts.

In personnel matters, the board accepted the resignation of social studies and former football coach Chris Schmidt. Chris and his wife Nellie are moving to the Columbus area. Schmidt’s middle school position will not be filled. Elementary music teacher Cari Beth Noah also resigned.

Eric Numbers was hired to teach 7th grade math.

Harman indicated that the district is still interviewing candidates for the open 4th grade language arts position.

Workbook prices and student fees for the 2013-14 school year will remain the same as last school year at $30.00. Any costs above the $30.00 per student amount will be covered by the general fund.